Software Simulates Spiral Bevel Gear Machining, Cylindrical Hobbing

Third Wave Systems will showcase two versions of its AdvantEdge gear machining software for simulating spiral bevel gear (SBG) machining and cylindrical hobbing processes. For SBG machining, the software can simulate single and continuous processes with generating and non-generating motions. This builds upon the current capability to simulate cylindrical hobbing, in which users design, generate and truncate the in-cut cylindrical gear geometry, enabling simulation at the location of interest. This feature is said to increase tool life and cutting gear quality by simulating the cutting process to predict chip formation, temperature, stresses and cutting forces. The software can also reduce the number of design iterations and amount of testing required.

Both cylindrical and SBG machining can be studied through process-specific interfaces designed for cylindrical hobbing, face hobbing and face milling, into which users enter workpiece blank dimensions and process parameters. The latest version includes additional functionality for entering process kinematics, advancements in initial meshing to generate in-cut mesh, a robust engine for large problem sizes and post-processing capabilities.